Sunset Marks Alentejo Anniversary with Wines, Local Tapas, and Folk Songs

The summer 2024 program at Herdade do Rocim, in Cuba, Alentejo, kicks off on May 18th, with open doors to celebrate the Herdade’s 17th anniversary and the arrival of summer time. The sunset event brings wines by the glass and harmonized tapas accompanied by local music and folk songs. Entry is free but requires prior reservation by May 15th, via email: enoturismo@herdadedorocim.com.

The inevitable wine tastings tailored to the visitors’ preferences, regional tapas, and a wider gastronomic offering will be in harmony this year with programs focused on physical activity and contact with nature. There’s a range of diverse experiences, with the main backdrop being the Herdade’s vineyards. Herdade do Rocim was recently awarded the Five Star Regions Prize in the Enotourism category. “It’s recognition of the work we’ve been doing. We believe this year will be one of consolidation so that we can have a more extensive offering, but above all, one with superior quality. Last year, we welcomed around 7,000 visitors to the estate, this year we expect to reach 10,000,” highlights Pedro Ribeiro, responsible for Herdade do Rocim.

“This year, we’re anticipating the grape harvesting programs for August and September, giving visitors the opportunity to learn about the process and taste some typical grape harvesting dishes,” says Bruno Gomes, responsible for events and wine tourism. In November, on the 16th, another edition of the Amphora Wine Day returns to celebrate St. Martin and the opening of the clay amphorae.

With the announced communication, whose detailed program will be revealed soon, Herdade do Rocim seeks to establish itself as a gastronomic space and promote the harmonization of its wines with a “more traditional and healthy cuisine, without losing the identity of this region,” says Bruno Gomes. Additionally, they will also focus on expanding their gastronomic offering, with wine menus and traditional grape harvesting meals available daily by prior reservation.

Last year, about 7,000 people visited this space, with a highlight on citizens from the United States of America, Brazil, and Central Europe, who sought to “get to know the local culture and the diversity of native vineyards.” This year, the goal is to surpass this number, but above all, to expand the offering of other services, so that this region is not just a passing point, but a mandatory stopping and staying point.

In this sense, and with the aim of promoting this sub-region as an excellent destination, Herdade do Rocim, together with local partners (Herdade do Sobroso, Herdade da Lisboa, and Quinta do Quetzal), created the ‘Vidigueira Weekend Food Wine & Design.’ “We have very similar visions regarding the quality of the offering, service excellence, and enhancing the visitor experience,” he concludes. All experiences can be found at www.rocim.pt.